Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program Public Lands Funding 2026-27

The Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program (NBHIP) Public Land Program is administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to support the enhancement of upland habitats for nesting birds, game birds, and pollinators on publicly managed lands. This initiative is rooted in the state’s broader commitment to reversing the decline in breeding populations of species such as waterfowl and ring-necked pheasants. Initially authorized by Assembly Bill 2697 and further funded through AB 614, the program utilizes a $10 surcharge collected from upland game bird and state duck hunting validations to finance habitat enhancement projects across California’s Central Valley. NBHIP specifically targets state Wildlife Areas and National Wildlife Refuges, providing financial assistance to improve both the quality and extent of upland nesting cover. Eligible project activities include the establishment or maintenance of perennial native grasses and forbs, and the restoration of existing grasslands. Projects may also involve vegetation management to reduce invasive weeds and promote habitat quality. A strict seasonal restriction prohibits any disturbance of the nesting cover (such as mowing, disking, or herbicide application) between April 1 and July 15 to protect nesting birds during critical breeding periods. To qualify for funding, project proposals must ensure the availability of summer water within one mile of the habitat enhancement area. While no cost-share is required, applications that include matching funds receive higher scores during evaluation. Awards are issued through reimbursable grants or contracts with eligible public or private entities, including nonprofits and California Native American tribes, provided they demonstrate sufficient expertise in habitat restoration, agriculture, or land management. The application process does not require a letter of intent. Interested parties should prepare a full application by the deadline of March 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Award announcements are expected by April 10, 2026, and successful applicants will be granted a three-year period of performance to complete funded activities. Evaluation criteria likely include alignment with program goals, technical merit, cost-effectiveness, and the provision of summer water. While grant guidelines should be reviewed in full prior to application, no specific pre-application requirements or separate concept paper steps are indicated in the source. Key contacts for this opportunity include Brian Olson, Wetland Conservation Program Supervisor, and Andrew Greenawalt, Environmental Scientist, both located at the Department’s West Sacramento office. An additional point of contact for applicant inquiries is Luke Matthews, available at [email protected] or via phone at 916-539-3654. The program is currently accepting applications and anticipates ongoing annual solicitations. Future funding cycles are likely to follow a similar springtime application schedule, based on current award timelines and established program structure.